The Dodgers’ pitching machine is starting to warm up — and two of its most intriguing arms just sent a message during spring training.
One is a proven ace building toward Opening Day. The other is a rising international star beginning to show flashes of dominance.

Dodgers Pitching Power on Display as Tyler Glasnow and Roki Sasaki Ramp Up for 2026 Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers may already boast one of baseball’s most intimidating rosters, but their pitching staff is beginning to look just as formidable.

During Tuesday’s spring training action at Camelback Ranch, two of the organization’s most closely watched pitchers — Tyler Glasnow and Roki Sasaki — delivered performances that signaled the Dodgers’ rotation could become even more dangerous once the season begins.

For the Dodgers, it was another reminder that their championship ambitions rest not only on star power at the plate but also on a pitching staff capable of overwhelming opponents.

Tyler Glasnow Moves One Step Closer to Opening Day

Veteran right-hander Tyler Glasnow continued his steady preparation for the Dodgers’ season-opening series, pitching into the fifth inning during a 4–1 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The outing didn’t begin perfectly.

On the second pitch of the game, Diamondbacks leadoff hitter Jordan Lawlar launched a home run, briefly putting Arizona ahead and testing Glasnow immediately.

But from that moment forward, Glasnow looked composed and dominant.

Over 4⅓ innings, he allowed only:

2 hits
1 walk
1 earned run
5 strikeouts

More importantly, his efficiency stood out.

Glasnow threw 60 pitches, reaching the fifth inning while maintaining strong command and rhythm. The performance marked the longest outing by any Dodgers pitcher this spring, making him the first to surpass three innings in a Cactus League game.

Compared with his previous appearance — when he threw 51 pitches across 2⅔ innings against Mexico — Tuesday’s outing demonstrated clear progress in building stamina for the regular season.

For a pitcher expected to play a key role in the Dodgers’ rotation, the outing represented another step toward full readiness.

Roki Sasaki Continues Development Behind the Scenes

While Glasnow handled the spotlight in the main spring game, Roki Sasaki was making headlines in a quieter setting.

The highly anticipated Japanese star pitched a B-game on the backfields at Camelback Ranch, continuing his gradual buildup after mixed results in his first Cactus League appearances.

Despite some inconsistencies, Sasaki delivered an eye-catching stat line.

Facing Chicago White Sox minor leaguers, the 23-year-old right-hander struck out nine batters, showcasing the electric arsenal that made him one of the most coveted pitchers in international baseball.

Observers noted that Sasaki’s fastball command appeared somewhat erratic at times, but the raw ability was undeniable.

For the Dodgers organization, that’s exactly what they expected.

Manager Dave Roberts has remained confident in Sasaki from the moment he joined the team.

“I’m betting on the performance to trend up,” Roberts said.

That confidence reflects the Dodgers’ long-term view of Sasaki as a pitcher capable of becoming a major force once he fully adjusts to Major League Baseball.

Dodgers Still Confident in Sasaki’s Opening Day Role

Even with occasional control issues this spring, Sasaki is still widely expected to be part of the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster.

The team has consistently emphasized patience as the young pitcher adapts to MLB hitters, schedules, and preparation routines.

His ability to generate strikeouts at such a high rate remains one of the most exciting signs for the organization.

If Sasaki’s command sharpens as expected, his combination of velocity and movement could make him one of the most dangerous arms in the league.

Another Arm Working Toward a Return

Tuesday also included a positive update for another Dodgers pitcher.

Brock Stewart, recovering from shoulder surgery in October, threw a bullpen session earlier in the morning.

Although Stewart is not expected to be ready for Opening Day, the fact that he has already resumed bullpen work is an encouraging sign.

If his recovery continues smoothly, he could become a potential roster option sometime in early to mid-April.

For a Dodgers team known for maximizing pitching depth, that possibility adds another layer of strength to the staff.

A Rotation That Could Terrify the League

As spring training progresses, the Dodgers’ pitching picture is beginning to take shape.

Glasnow is building toward full strength.

Sasaki is flashing the strikeout potential that made him an international sensation.

And additional arms are slowly working their way back into the mix.

For a team already loaded with offensive firepower, that combination could make Los Angeles even more difficult to beat once the season begins.

And if Tuesday’s performances are any indication, the Dodgers’ rotation may soon be ready to send a powerful message to the rest of Major League Baseball.